My First Onomichi Series: Day 4/6
From Senkoji’s steps, a steep path descends,
Hills and homes, where life ascends.
A harbor town with slopes so steep,
In Onomichi’s heart, memories keep.
Photo Description – Steep Staircases
This photo captures a narrow, steep staircase descending from Senkoji in Onomichi, Hiroshima Prefecture. The steps lead down towards the Onomichi Waterway, with the city’s residential area spread out below. The surrounding houses, perched on the hillside, reflect the daily lives of residents who have adapted to this unique, sloping landscape. The greenery and the cityscape blend harmoniously, offering a glimpse into the rich, lived-in history of Onomichi.
Story Behind the Photo – Life on the Hills
Taken from the descending path of Senkoji, this photo showcases the steep, narrow streets that characterize Onomichi. The sight of homes clustered along the hillside hints at the daily lives and enduring history of the town’s residents. Having visited another hilly town, Nagasaki, last year, I was once again drawn to the unique charm of these sloping streets. Although the ascent was eased by the ropeway, the descent offered a profound connection to the town’s vibrant past. This image captures that blend of history and daily life.
From an Amateur Photographer’s Perspective – Capturing Daily Life
During my midday exploration of Onomichi, I found myself descending from Senkoji. The steep, narrow steps leading down to the waterway provided a perfect vantage point to capture the essence of this hilly port town. Walking these streets, I felt a distinct sense of history and community, different from the natural landscapes I often photograph. The challenge of navigating these slopes was rewarded with a deeper understanding of the town’s unique charm and resilience, a sentiment reflected in this photograph.
Equipment and EXIF Information
- Camera: Olympus PEN-F
- Lens: M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 12-45mm F4.0 PRO
- Shutter Speed: 1/400s
- Aperture: ƒ/8
- ISO: 400
Location